Stamford Downtown debuts sidewalk art by local artist Chancellor Hayes

Smile here on Atlantic Street in Stamford, Connecticut

Stamford Downtown is proud to announce the completion of the Sidewalk Art in Stamford Downtown Placemaking Project—an initiative aimed at enhancing the pedestrian experience through vibrant, interactive public art. The project features five permanent sidewalk murals by local artist Chancellor Hayes, known on Instagram as @8ballcreates, now on view at key locations throughout Stamford Downtown.

From playful prompts to whimsical visuals, each piece invites passersby to engage with the city in a joyful, unexpected way. The installations include:

• “Smile Here” at Kiwanis Park (Atlantic Street)
•“What Will You Read Today?” at the entrance to the Ferguson Library (Broad Street)
•“Jump” and “Kiss Here” in Columbus Park near the flagpole and on Washington Blvd.
• “Playground Club” in Latham Park

Hayes, whose signature style fuses vibrant color with playful direction, approached this project with energy, imagination, and deep care—transforming ordinary sidewalks into unexpected moments of joy.

“Public art is a powerful tool for placemaking,” said Michael Moore, President of Stamford Downtown. “These sidewalk installations not only brighten our public spaces but also invite people to interact with their surroundings in creative and uplifting ways. Chancellor’s work brings a sense of wonder and personality to Stamford Downtown, and we’re proud to have partnered with him on this meaningful project.”

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Stamford Downtown debuts sidewalk art by local artist Chancellor Hayes